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Vietnam is seizing the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to drive economic growth and address societal challenges, committing to a path of responsible AI development. This dedication is evident through strategic initiatives and measures aimed at ensuring AI is harnessed effectively and ethically.
The National Strategy on Research, Development, and Application of AI, setting ambitious goals for the country. The strategy aims to position Vietnam as a leading hub for AI innovation and application within the ASEAN region by 2030. This forward-thinking approach has yielded significant progress.
According to the Government AI Readiness Index from an independent organisation, Vietnam has climbed to the 59th position out of 193 countries and the 5th position among ASEAN nations. This marks a notable achievement in the country’s journey toward becoming an AI powerhouse.
However, the rapid expansion of AI technology brings a range of challenges. These include concerns about cybersecurity, protection of personal information, intellectual property rights, and the legal responsibilities of AI stakeholders.
The Vietnam Artificial Intelligence Day 2024 (AI4VN 2024) highlighted these issues, with Tran Luu Quang, Head of the Party Central Committee’s Economic Commission, affirming Vietnam’s commitment to aligning AI development with the interests of the nation and its people. He stressed that technology will not be used to infringe upon these rights, underscoring a strong ethical stance.
Globally, efforts are underway to establish a robust ethical and legal framework for managing AI. The fundamental principles of responsible AI are widely recognised and include ensuring AI serves humanity, being non-harmful, functioning as intended, and maintaining safety, security, fairness, transparency, and respect for personal data and intellectual property.
In Vietnam, the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) has been actively working to refine the legal and ethical landscape for AI. Deputy Minister Bui The Duy stressed that responsibility in AI must be embedded at every stage of its lifecycle – from the development of algorithms and data collection to the deployment of AI systems.
He highlighted the importance of addressing issues such as personal data security, intellectual property, environmental protection, and social security. These considerations are crucial for fostering a responsible AI environment that benefits all stakeholders.
A significant milestone in this endeavour was the issuance of Decision No. 1290/QD-BKHCN by MoST. This decision outlines nine principles for the research and development of responsible AI systems. These principles include cooperation, innovation, transparency, controllability, safety, security, privacy, respect for human rights and dignity, user support, and accountability.
This document represents Vietnam’s first comprehensive effort to formalise principles for responsible AI development, providing a clear framework for guiding future AI initiatives.
Deputy Minister Duy noted that these principles will be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect practical needs and challenges, ensuring that Vietnam’s approach to AI remains relevant and effective. This ongoing refinement is essential for adapting to the rapidly evolving field of AI and addressing emerging issues.
OpenGov Asia reported that Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s recent dispatch focuses on advancing human resource development in key technology sectors, including artificial intelligence (AI). The initiative, outlined in Dispatch No. 83/CD-TTg, focuses on creating breakthroughs in AI through targeted education and training.
Collaboration among government, researchers, and industry leaders is key to advancing responsible AI in Vietnam, aligning AI progress with ethics and legal standards to boost societal well-being and sustainable economic growth.
Vietnam’s commitment to responsible AI development is evident in its strategic planning, regulatory frameworks, and proactive measures. As the country continues to advance in AI innovation, it remains focused on ensuring that the technology serves the greater good, protecting individual rights and fostering a balanced and ethical AI ecosystem.
